Zhik makes a very close fitting vest that is not at all obtrusive. Just bought one and I think it will replace my Cabelas inflatable. Nothing wrong with the inflatable, but due to the amount of water I get hit with when sailing I don't trust it not to go off at the wrong time. Generally they have to submerged - the occasional splash won't do it. Still, in rougher conditions there might be enough water there to do it.

It's personal choice, but be aware that any fall on the dock, or knock to your head can cause you to be disoriented or worse for 30 seconds to a minute. If that happens with a manually operated inflatable PFD, you run a slightly higher risk.

Having said that, I'm thinking about getting the inflatable type myself. There are days where I sail the Bravo that I end up taking the PFD off, and tying it to an accessory line that I've attached to my hiking straps. There are other days where I would definitely wear my PFD, and would not want an inflatable.

Keep in mind the risks, and consider having a traditional life jacket with you for days where the inflatable may not be as ideal.

The safest and ideal solution is to find the most comfortable PFD (not lifejacket) you can find, and always wear it. I used to sit on mine because it was not comfortable, until I find one that is comfortable. I got a kayak style PFD. Go to a few stores and try different ones.

Recently pitchpoled and my friend hit his back pretty bad on one of the cleats on his way for a swim. He's a lifeguard so a good swimmer, but was still happy to be wearing a PFD while getting his bearings. A blow to the head would have been worse.

and for what it's worth most airlines won't allow you to take the cartridge on an aircraft. I've read about guys having to take them out when going to regattas and I've had to remove them from tire inflation kits when I travelled with my bicycle.

This in spite of the fact that it doesn't contravene any regulations and every life jacket on the plane inflates that way.

and for what it's worth most airlines won't allow you to take the cartridge on an aircraft. I've read about guys having to take them out when going to regattas and I've had to remove them from tire inflation kits when I travelled with my bicycle.

This in spite of the fact that it doesn't contravene any regulations and every life jacket on the plane inflates that way.

I know some people who've had luck with taping a printout of the TSA regulations to the lifejacket with the relevant section highlighted. I suppose you could also stick the jacket in your carry on, and when they try to take them out make them go look up the regulation, but I wouldn't try this one unless you have a long time before your flight...